A calf (pl.: calves) is a young domestic cow or bull. Calves are reared to become adult cattle or are slaughtered for their meat, called veal , and their hide . The term calf is also used for some other species.

Jun 22, 2023 · Deciding when and how to separate calves from cows impacts the animal’s health and ultimately, its market value. The good news is that producers have a lot of options. Here’s what to consider when choosing a weaning strategy for your operation.

Using basic care practices daily can reduce calf illness and death on your farm. Managing heifer calves can help you make sure they: Enter the milking herd quickly. Become strong, healthy and high-producing cows. There’s no single best way to raise calves. What works on one farm may not be ideal for another farm.

Jan 11, 2022 · Healthy cows with normal calf presentation will calve within 22 minutes of the start of stage two. This suggests that normal stage two of parturition should be defined as approximately 60 minutes for heifers and 30 minutes for adult cows.

Sep 29, 2023 · Learn the essentials of newborn and young calf care. Follow these key guidelines for colostrum, housing, sanitation, nutrition and more to raise robust, productive calves.

The average cow is 2 years old when she has her first calf. Calves are fed from the cow until they are between 8 and 9 weeks old. It is essential for a calf to be fed their mothers milk from the start as it contains antibodies that protect the new calf from diseases.

When you interrupt a cow that is calving, she will prioritize her own life and stop calving. There are three stages to labor.

Calf scours can be a major problem for any cow-calf operation. Controlling the disease is a complex issue and has many variables. While we can identify specific agents of disease that cause scours, it is important to remember that the control of the disease often requires a system-wide approach to prevention rather than individual treatment to solve the problem.

Dec 20, 2024 · While most cattle deliver calves without complications, dystocia – or difficult calving – may occur. Reviewing what normal deliveries look like, recognizing the signs of dystocia, and understanding when to call a veterinarian can help to ensure the health of the cow and calf.

Mar 12, 2025 · Calves are more than just adorable baby cows; they play a crucial role in agriculture and our ecosystem. Did you know that a calf can stand and walk within an hour of birth? Calves are born with a natural instinct to find their mother's milk, which is essential for their growth and immune system.